The arts are known to be inspiring, thought-provoking and illuminating. But perhaps not as well-known are the incredible ripple effects that result from the work of Ontario’s professional artists and arts organizations – from creating jobs to attracting tourists, to bringing communities together and empowering youth.

Today, the Ontario Arts Council (OAC) is launching a new series of short videos exploring how, beyond their intrinsic qualities, publicly funded arts activities add value in communities across Ontario. OAC will share a new Ripple Effect video online every few weeks over the coming months until all ten are revealed.

“We invest in the arts because they’re essential to society. But we also invest because arts add value,” said Rita Davies, OAC Chair. “We hope you share this project, which aims to demonstrate this value to all Ontarians.”

First up is Near North Mobile Media Lab, a North Bay organization that gives northern Ontario filmmakers access to equipment and resources, while also training youth aspiring to become digital media creators. Executive Director, Holly Cunningham, explains how support from OAC continues to help them grow into an organization their community needs.

Watch The Ripple Effect - Near North Mobile Media Lab video

The Ripple Effect series underlines that by investing public money in the work of artists and arts organizations, OAC is investing in the ripple effects that their work generates for Ontarians in communities across the province.

Join us over the next few months as we explore the diverse impacts of arts activity – some perhaps unexpected, and all of them powerful.

Investing in the arts has a ripple effect. Read more about how arts add value: www.arts.on.ca/artsaddvalue

For more information

Kirsten Gunter
Director of Communications
416-969-7403 | toll-free in Ontario: 1-800-387-0058, ext. 7403
[email protected]